Winona State University has been recognized as one of America’s Best-Value Public Universities in a new 2026 national study by SmartAsset, earning a place among the top 50 public institutions in the country and standing as the only Minnesota university included in the ranking.
SmartAsset evaluated more than 500 public colleges and universities nationwide to identify institutions that combine affordable costs with strong student outcomes. The ranking considered colleges and universities with a cost of attendance below the median for comparable institutions and measured value using graduation rates and median alumni earnings 10 years after first enrollment.
Winona State ranked No. 35 nationally, with a cost of attendance of $23,683, a 59% graduation rate, and median earnings of $58,532 for students 10 years after enrollment.
“This recognition reflects what we’ve long believed at Winona State: students deserve a high-quality education that is both accessible and affordable,” said President Kenneth Janz. “Families are looking for a university where they can see a real return on their investment, and we’re proud to be recognized for helping students achieve their academic and career goals while keeping that education within reach. Being the only Minnesota university included in this ranking speaks to the commitment of our faculty and staff and the success of our students.”
Winona State’s commitment to affordability extends beyond tuition. A majority of students receive financial aid, and the Winona State Foundation awards more than $2.1 million in scholarships each year through more than 800 scholarship awards. The university has also been recognized among America’s “Best College Buys” for 25 consecutive years.
“Choosing a college is about much more than cost,” said Tania Staley, Director of Admissions. “Students want to feel confident they’re making the right decision academically, financially, and personally. One of the things we hear most often after a campus visit is that Winona State just feels right. We encourage prospective students and their families to visit campus and see firsthand what makes Winona State such a great place to learn, grow, and find their future.”
According to SmartAsset, the study examined the full cost of attendance, including tuition, books, fees, housing, transportation, and other living expenses, to better capture the overall financial investment students make in earning a degree. Rankings were then based on a composite score that measured both graduation outcomes and long-term earnings.
The recognition adds to Winona State’s growing reputation for affordability and student success. The university continues to provide students with a high-quality educational experience while maintaining its commitment to access, academic excellence, and career readiness.
Winona State University offers more than 100 bachelor’s degree programs, more than 80 minors, over 40 graduate programs, and a variety of adult and continuing education opportunities. Graduates continue to achieve strong career outcomes, with 97% employed in careers related to their fields of study. Prospective students and families interested in learning more about Winona State can visit wsu.mn/admissions.
About Winona State University
Founded in 1858, Winona State University is a comprehensive, regional public university with campuses in Winona and Rochester. The oldest member of the Minnesota State system, WSU offers more than 80 undergraduate, pre-professional, licensure, graduate and doctorate programs in five colleges: Business, Education, Liberal Arts, Nursing & Health Sciences, and Science & Engineering.
Winona State is ranked 2nd among Minnesota Universities and 22nd across the entire Midwest region (U.S. News and World Report, 2025-26). It has been named among the “Best in the Midwest” by The Princeton Review for 22 consecutive years.
The University generates $447.9 million in economic impact for the region per year. The university’s mission is to enhance the intellectual, social, cultural and economic vitality of the people and communities it serves: a community of learners improving our world. For more information, visit winona.edu.
